Quote from Jayford:
Only because of energy prices. A deep US recession, followed by tumbling energy prices would absolutely crash the ruble again.
Why? cause 80% of their economy is based on fuel exports. They have a rapidly expanding consumer economy, but mainly just contained to Moscow (now the most expensive city in the world) and St Petersburg. This still has its base in fuel prices however.
They also have a problem of a rapidly declining population.
As for the mail order Ukrainian brides, I met a guy in Finland that married one. Absolutely gorgeous, and sweet as could be. Until after they were married, at which time she morphed into a controlling, money hungry monster. when she had residency, and he refused to spend huge on her, she rapidly obtained a divorce. from what I hear, this is the rule more than the exception.
If ya want a mail order bride, marry a Thai!